Whole Foods Grilled Cheese and Heirloom Tomato Sandwich

August24th,2014

I had a chance to preview the newly rebuilt Whole Foods Oracle location last week and even sampled a few yummy dishes. You know I can’t pass up a good grilled cheese. They sent me home with the grilled cheese and heirloom tomato sandwich recipe (and a few ingredients) so I could make it too. I can’t make the sandwich for you but I am sharing the recipe below. First I wanted to share a few details and pictures from the new store.

The Whole Foods Oracle store will open on Wednesday, August 27th at 9AM. It may look ready now but they are still stocking the store and finishing some last minute preparations. Apparently lots of people keep stopping by in hopes that the store is already open. I know it’s been a long (1+ year project) but we only have a few more days to wait.

The Oracle location will feature a full service bar and restaurant, Bar 77 with 45 seats inside and 30 seats on the patio. It will offer a tavern-style menu and feature local products whenever possible, including at least 12 of the 24 craft beers on draft. By the way Whole Foods considers any product made in Arizona to be local. By offering as many local products in the store as possible they help limit the environmental impact and keep more money within the Arizona economy. I’m pretty sure everyone in Tucson can appreciate that.

Personally I am excited about the hot and cold bar featuring prepared salads and hot menu items like organic soup. It’s a great way to pick up a quick dinner without resorting to fast food. Wednesdays is the best day for a healthy meal on a budget, save $2 off per pound at the food bar.

The first 200 people at the Whole Foods Oracle grand opening (Wednesday, August 27th at 9AM), will receive a mini loaf of cinnamon raisin bread from Mediterra. To stay up to date on the latest store happenings, sales and events you can follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. I noticed a “Learn How To Shop Organic and Save” event happening at the Oracle store on September 23rd. I could definitely use that class, I’d love to focus on healthier options without breaking the grocery budget!

Now who’s ready for the grilled cheese recipe??

Whole Foods Grilled Cheese and Heirloom Tomato Sandwich

2 Large Heirloom Tomatoes, sliced thin

Kosher Salt

Black Pepper

365 Everyday Value Virgin Olive Oil

1 C 365 Every Day Value Organic Shredded Mozzarella

1 C 365 Every Day Value Shredded Cheddar

Basil, torn

8 slices 365 Every Day Value Honey Whole Wheat Bread

Season tomatoes with salt and pepper and drizzle with oil. Place mozzarella on one slice of bread and then top with tomatoes. Add the torn basil and top the tomato with the cheddar. Top with the other slice of bread. Place in a Panini press until toasted and the cheese is all melted. Serves 4. Recipe Credit: Whole Foods

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. I happily accepted an invite for a sneak peek of the new store. I figured you guys would appreciate learning about the new store.